Researchers at the University of Stirling have discovered a new population of stem cells in the skin of Atlantic salmon, shedding light on wound healing mechanisms in teleost fish.
The study utilized advanced RNA sequencing techniques to identify fibroblast-like stem cells, known as mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), responsible for skin repair and regeneration.
MSCs in salmon skin exhibit pluripotent capabilities, potentially contributing to various tissue lineages beyond skin regeneration, such as bone and fat cells.
This research highlights a divergence in regenerative strategies between aquatic vertebrates and terrestrial organisms, showcasing the remarkable resilience of fish.
The findings offer promise for the aquaculture industry, aiming to enhance tissue repair pathways and reduce disease susceptibility in farmed salmon populations.
Understanding the unique spatial organization of MSCs within the skin provides insights for therapeutic interventions and improved skin integrity in salmon.
The study's collaborative approach among multiple institutions emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary research in advancing regenerative biology and aquaculture practices.
'Our discovery that MSCs are a functional and persistent component of salmon skin reframes how we think about fish tissue regeneration,' says lead researcher Dr. Ruiz Daniels.
This research sets a new standard in teleost regenerative biology and underscores the potential of genomic tools in driving innovation for sustainable aquaculture practices.
Future research may explore molecular mechanisms regulating MSC plasticity and interactions with immune cells to further enhance tissue repair and immune defenses in aquaculture species.